Identify deficiencies that may impact IEQ and/or sources of odor concerns. Typically includes the following depending on the nature of concern, but not limited to:
- interview/questionnaire of concern individual(s)
- inspection above drop ceiling (condition of roof deck, pipe insulation, return air plenum)
- inspection of ventilation system (operation of variable air volume box and outdoor air dampers, check controls, measurements of carbon dioxide, temperature and relative humidity, sources near outdoor air intake, measure return and supply air volume, cleanliness of coils, liner and condensate pan)
- inspection of exterior
- inspection below drop ceiling (housekeeping, sink and floor drain traps, signs of past and present moisture concern via visual and/or moisture meter, mold growth, ensure connection of current and capping of abandoned sanitary vents, odorizers, excessive plants and fabric items, identify potential pathways, and measure volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, and lighting)
Date(s) of Assessment: November 16, 2022
Staff reported a moldy/musty odor, believed to be coming from an air vent in the center portion of the main office. The odor was noticed at approximately 12:40 on November 15, 2022 and lasted less than one hour.
No odors were sensed when entering the space on November 16, 2022.
A ladder was used to get as close as possible to the supply air diffuser in question. The supply diffuser was delivering air, however no odors were sensed emanating from the diffuser.
The area was screened with a thermal imaging camera. No thermal anomalies indicative of moisture intrusion were identified.
The carpet was probed with a moisture meter. No elevated moisture was detected.
The drywall was randomly probed with a moisture meter (drywall setting). No elevated moisture was detected.
Areas above the drop ceiling were assessed. No odors were sensed. No moisture intrusion concerns were identified.
The Air Handling Unit (AHU) that serves the main office (AHU-9) was assessed:
- The filters were in good condition (labeled as replaced in August 2022).
- Excess dirt/debris was not observed on the coils.
- No concerns were observed in association with the condensate pan.
- The outside air dampers were open.
The facilities work order system was reviewed for recent work that may have caused an odor such as painting, caulking, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC), etc. No work tickets of note were identified during the day of the odor report.
The school can contact the Office of the Environment should the odor return. If available, a representative from the Office will visit the site as soon as reasonably possible in an attempt to identify the odor.